Passavant sur Layon changed names over the past centuries. In 1060, the village received the name of Passavantum that became Passavant sur Layon on February 14th, 1922.

The Passavant or passe-avant was "a licence of ciculation" which allowed conveying goods from a place to another.

Saint Etienne Church dates from the beginning of 12^th century.
A chapel was built in the 11^th century. Then, it turned into parish cure. 
In 1626, it was razed to the ground.

The nave of the church, rebuilt in 1862, was paved with graves in which there are inscriptions. Some are visible in the vestry as this of Caravas'count. According to a legend, Charles Perrault took inspiration from Passavant to write the Chat Botté in which there is Caravas'count.

Saint Etienne Church is listed to the Inventory of Historic Monuments in 1926 and the latest restoration dates from 1971.

Foulques Nerra had the first castle built in the 11^th century.

He entrust Sigebrand with it.

Another castle was built in 1210 on the site of the current castle. Vestiges of the feudal castle  as the flanked  wall of round towers are still visible. 

It is possible to see traces of an old drawbridge in the front door from 16^th century.

The current dwelling dates from the 17^th century.